Getting a cavity filled can feel stressful, especially if you’re worried about how it’ll look. No one wants a noticeable metal spot in their smile. Thankfully, there’s a better option now. If you’re looking for a discreet way to fix a cavity, tooth coloured fillings in Vancouver are a smart choice.
Tooth-coloured fillings have the capability of matching the colour or shade of your natural teeth, thus maintaining your bright and natural smile.
What Are Tooth Coloured Fillings?
Tooth coloured fillings, also called composite fillings, are made from a mix of plastic resin and glass particles and are made in a way that they easily blend with the colour of your natural teeth.
Advantages of Tooth-Coloured Fillings
There are a lot of perks of tooth-coloured fillings:
- It gives your teeth a natural look
- Can easily bond with the tooth.
- Saves a major portion of your real tooth.
- Can be used for both front or back teeth.
Are Tooth-Coloured Fillings Durable?
Yes, tooth-colored fillings can last many years with a proper care routine in place. They are strong enough to take normal chewing and everyday activity, especially on teeth that are not subjected to much pressure.
Regular visits will allow your dentist to monitor the fillings and remediate any minor issues ahead of time.
What Is The Difference Compared To Metal Fillings?
Although tooth-colored composites and metal fillings work towards a common goal, that of filling cavities, the former holds a clear advantage. They look more authentic and do not expand or contract with hot or cold foods.
Metal fillings may do this sometimes and end up cracking the teeth.
Tooth-colored fillings bond much better to the tooth structure, allowing less drilling of the tooth.
Tooth-Coloured vs. Metal Fillings
| Feature | Tooth-Coloured Fillings | Metal (Amalgam) Fillings |
| Appearance | Matches natural tooth shade | Silver, highly visible |
| Material | Resin and glass particles | Mercury and metal alloy |
| Bonding | Strong chemical bond | Mechanical fit only |
| Amount of Tooth Removed | Minimal | More drilling required |
| Longevity | 5–10 years (with care) | 10–15 years (with care) |
| Safety | Mercury-free | Contains mercury |
Who Should Consider Tooth Coloured Fillings?
Tooth coloured fillings are great for:
- People who want their fillings to blend in
- Anyone with metal allergies or mercury concerns
- Small to medium-sized cavities
- Those who want to keep as much of their natural tooth as possible
Your dentist can check the size and location of your cavity to see if this type of filling is right for you.
Can Tooth Coloured Fillings Be Repaired or Replaced?
Yes. One nice benefit of composite fillings is that they can be fixed. If part of it chips or wears down, your dentist can add more material without removing the whole thing. This makes the filling last longer.
If a filling is damaged too much, it can be taken out and replaced. The dentist will remove the old material and put in a new one. It’s a simple and safe process that helps your tooth stay healthy and strong.
Do Tooth Coloured Fillings Require Special Care?
Not really. Treat them like your regular teeth. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and avoid too much sugar. Don’t use your teeth to open things or chew on hard objects like ice, as that could damage the filling.
See your dentist for checkups to make sure everything is still in good shape. Using fluoride toothpaste also helps keep the tooth and filling strong.
Are There Any Limitations to Be Aware Of?
While composite fillings are strong, they might not work as well for large cavities in back teeth. These areas take more pressure, and other treatments like crowns might be better.
Also, composite fillings can stain over time if you drink a lot of coffee or tea or use tobacco. Talk to your dentist about your habits so you can choose the best option.
Wrapping Up!
Tooth coloured fillings are a great mix of strength and appearance. They help protect your teeth while keeping your smile looking natural. Thanks to better materials and techniques, they’ve become a trusted part of modern dentistry.
Confidence Begins With Your Smile
If you need a filling or want to replace old metal ones, speak to a dentist in Downtown Vancouver who can help you make the right choice. A good filling does more than fix a tooth; it helps you smile with confidence.